What is an oral food challenge?
An oral food challenge (OFC) is a medical procedure in which a food is eaten slowly, in gradually increasing amounts, under medical supervision, to accurately diagnose or rule out a true food allergy.
What are the reasons to perform an OFC?
OFCs are usually done when a careful medical history and allergy tests, such as skin and/or blood tests, are inconclusive. The OFC is a more definitive test because it will show whether the food ingested produces no symptoms or triggers a reaction.
What do I need to do in preparation to have an OFC?
You need to be in good health on the day of the test. Chronic allergic conditions such as asthma, atopic dermatitis (eczema) and allergic rhinitis (hay fever) have to be well controlled so they do not interfere with the interpretation of any symptoms. If you are sick on the day of the test, postpone it. You should also carry your usual medications and emergency medications with you so you have them for the trip to the doctor and back.
Just like for Allergy Skin Testing all antihistamines have to be stoped 5 days prior to your visit.
How long does this test take?
The test is long and you should expect to be in the office for about 4- 5 hours.
For detailed instructions of what to bring to your OFC appointment please email or call the office.
